Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Recipe

Name: These 4-Ingredient Chicken Tenders Are Weeknight Dinner Gold
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Ingredients: cooking spray; 1 egg; ½ cup panko bread crumbs; 2 tablespoons canola oil; 8 chicken tenders (about 1 lb.); fresh parsley for garnish

Cook Time: 12 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe yields 4 servings. Ingredient amounts can be scaled, but cooking times and steps remain the same.

Cooking spray
1 large egg
1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
2 tablespoons canola oil
8 chicken tenders
Freshly chopped parsley for garnish

Directions

Gather all ingredients and prepare your workspace for cooking.
Preheat your air fryer to 350F (175C) and lightly coat the basket with cooking spray.
In a small bowl, whisk the egg until smooth.
In a separate bowl, combine the panko bread crumbs and canola oil, stirring until the mixture is loose and crumbly.
Dip each chicken tender into the egg, letting any excess drip off.
Coat the chicken tender thoroughly in the panko mixture, pressing gently so crumbs stick well. Repeat with all pieces, working in batches if necessary.
Arrange the chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
Cook for approximately 12 minutes, or until the chicken is no longer pink inside and juices run clear. An instant-read thermometer should register at least 165F (74C).
Serve immediately, garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Enjoy!

Cook's Note

These chicken tenders are perfect with honey mustard sauce or your favorite dipping sauce.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories: 474
Total Fat: 28g (35%)
Saturated Fat: 4g (22%)
Cholesterol: 99mg (33%)
Sodium: 1024mg (45%)
Total Carbohydrate: 32g (12%)
Dietary Fiber: 2g (6%)
Total Sugars: 1g
Protein: 25g (50%)
Vitamin C: 0mg (0%)
Calcium: 52mg (4%)
Iron: 2mg (10%)
Potassium: 411mg (9%)

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Individual needs may vary.

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Recipe

Origins of Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Although chicken tenders themselves originated in the United States during the late 20th century, the modern air-fryer version represents a shift toward healthier home cooking. As air fryers became popular for their ability to replicate the crispiness of deep-fried foods with minimal oil, classic comfort dishes like chicken tenders were quickly adapted. This combination of convenience, speed, and lighter preparation helped the recipe spread rapidly across American households.

Regional Variations

In the American South, chicken tenders are often seasoned with paprika, garlic, and cayenne for a spicier profile, while Midwestern versions tend to favor buttery coatings and a milder crust. Coastal regions sometimes pair tenders with citrus-based sauces or herb-infused breadcrumbs. The air-fryer method remains consistent, but the seasonings and preferred dips vary widely from state to state.

How They Differ From Similar Dishes

Air fryer chicken tenders differ from traditional fried chicken strips mainly in texture and preparation technique. Instead of deep-frying, hot circulating air creates a crisp exterior using far less oil. Unlike baked tenders, air-fried versions develop a more evenly browned crust and a juicier interior. Compared with chicken nuggets, tenders are made from whole cuts of breast meat, not minced or formed chicken.

Where They Are Commonly Served

Today, chicken tenders appear everywherefrom family restaurants and food trucks to school cafeterias and sports bars. At home, they are a popular choice for weeknight dinners because they cook quickly and require minimal cleanup. Their versatility also makes them suitable for lunchboxes, party platters, and casual weekend meals.

Interesting Facts

One fascinating detail is that chicken tenders are cut from a specific muscle, the pectoralis minor, making them naturally tender without additional marinating. Air frying not only reduces oil by up to 70% compared to deep-frying but also preserves more natural moisture. In recent years, air-fried chicken tenders have become popular among home cooks seeking healthier comfort food with restaurant-level crispiness. Their adaptability to different coatingspanko, cornflakes, crushed crackersadds to their ongoing appeal.

FAQ about Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Recipe

Yes, you can substitute regular breadcrumbs for panko. However, the texture might not be as crispy and light as with panko breadcrumbs.

Yes, you can use olive oil or any other neutral-flavored oil instead of canola oil. Just be sure to use an oil that is suitable for high-heat cooking.

The chicken tenders are done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You can use an instant-read thermometer to check the temperature in the thickest part of the tender.

Yes, you can bake the chicken tenders in the oven. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for about 15–20 minutes, or until they are fully cooked and crispy.

To make the chicken tenders spicier, you can add some cayenne pepper, paprika, or hot sauce to the panko breadcrumb mixture or to the egg wash.

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked, breaded chicken tenders. Lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 2 hours, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to cook, air fry from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 12-15 minutes.

This recipe yields 4 servings, or 8 chicken tenders.

Yes, you can use boneless chicken breasts. Just cut them into strips to mimic the size of tenders, and cook for about the same amount of time, checking for the internal temperature to reach 165°F (74°C).

You can bread the chicken tenders ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to a few hours before cooking. However, they are best when served fresh and hot.

These chicken tenders are delicious on their own or served with a dipping sauce like honey mustard, ranch, or barbecue sauce. You can also pair them with a side of vegetables, a salad, or fries for a complete meal.